The Galax Theatre Guild will hold auditions Sunday from 2-4 p.m. and Monday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Galax for its upcoming production of the bluegrass/gospel musical play “Smoke on the Mountain.”
“Smoke on the Mountain” — not to be confused with the annual state barbecue festival that takes place in Galax — is a hilarious musical was written by Connie Ray and conceived by Alan Bailey, with music by Mike Craver and Mark Hardwick.
The play takes place in the sanctuary of the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Mount Pleasant, N.C., during the Depression years of the late 1930s.
It is the first night of the young preacher's “radical” new program, a Saturday night gospel sing featuring the visiting Sanders family, who lead the audience — as the congregation — in 18 gospel numbers while intermittently witnessing and testifying.
There are roles for five women and four men. Most of the characters sing and play an instrument such as piano, guitar, fiddle, banjo, bass, Autoharp or accordion.
The Galax Theatre Guild is looking for nine cast members with musical talent. Some cast members should have talent playing piano, double bass, guitar, fiddle and accordion.
The roles include Pastor Oglethorpe, who sings and plays accordion; Vera Sanders, the mother who sings and plays piano; Burl Sanders, the father who sings and plays an instrument; June Sanders, the daughter who sings; Stanley Sanders, the uncle who sings and plays an instrument; Denise and Dennis Sanders, the non-identical twins who sing and may play instruments; and Miss Maude and Miss Myrtle, the pillars of Mount Pleasant Church, who are non-musical.
Volunteers are also needed for costumes, sets, props, makeup, etc.
Performances will be held at the Rex Theater on Oct. 2-3 and Oct. 9-10. Rehearsals begin in early August.
Gospel numbers include "I’ll Fly Away," "Washed in the Blood" and "I’m Using My Bible as a Roadmap," in addition to lesser-known pieces.
If you play an instrument, plan to audition with it. There will be a piano present and someone to accompany singers.
If you have never auditioned before, you can come 30 minutes early to speak with the director to prepare you for the audition.